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People can donate to the fund, which Astorino called a “neighbors helping neighbors fund”, by visiting the United Way of Westchester and Putnam website.
The United Way’s 2-1-1 connects people in need with government resources. Its staff and volunteers have fielded more than 3,000 calls from Hudson Valley residents in need of assistance after the storm, and its website has garnered nearly 220,000 searches since Sunday, officials said.
“We always say, ‘Burning fire, call 9-1-1. Burning question, call 2-1-1,’” Naomi Adler, president and CEO of the United Way of Westchester and Putnam, said at the news conference Thursday. “We are happy to partner with the county in forming the Westchester County Disaster Recovery Fund, which will help to address needs in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and any other disasters that may still be ahead.”
The fund is intended to address the long-term issues people impacted by Hurricane Sandy will face. Adler said her staff is still helping connect residents affected by last year's Hurricane Irene find the resources they need.
“The formation of the Westchester County Disaster Recovery Fund will be an important tool in helping our residents rebuild after Hurricane Sandy and any other catastrophes that may strike in the year ahead,” Astorino said.
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